Online learning - frequently asked questions

What is the difference between online and correspondence study?

Online courses may be completed entirely on the internet as opposed to our traditional Open Colleges (formerly Cengage Education) correspondence courses that are delivered in hard copy to your door. Although the material is exactly the same as equivalent print courses, online coursework, lessons and other learning materials are accessed via the OpenSpace online portal. Our online courses are easy to understand, offer many interactive elements and load quickly, so students are guaranteed a simple and rewarding learning experience. Students will also be able to access all coursework and learning materials at any time and from any computer with an internet connection.

Are online courses Austudy/Abstudy approved?

A number of Open Colleges ucation online courses are Austudy/Abstudy approved, but you will need to apply directly to your Centrelink or JobNetwork Member office to receive these benefits.

Do I need any special computer systems or software to complete a course online?

To study online, you’ll need the following:

• Microsoft Office 2003 or equivalent, and
• Microsoft Windows 98, or
• Mac OS X, and
• CD-ROM drive.

Students will also need access to a printer and the following applications:

• Adobe Acrobat Reader and
• Macromedia Flash player.

How does online learning work?

Once enrolled in an online course, students will be given a login name to the OpenSpace online portal, from where they can access all their coursework and learning materials. If the course materials include textbooks, students will have access to eBooks. Each course is clearly organised into lessons, then divided into individual modules that cover specific topics. Once students have logged into OpenSpace and their course, the units they are studying are clearly laid out and easy to navigate.

Students will submit all assignments and complete all of their coursework online. They are able to chat and interact with other students or contact their tutor directly via online messaging.

What study tools and support is available to me?

All Open Colleges students have access to the OpenSpace online portal. From Open Space, students are connected to trainers and online mentors, Open Colleges' exclusive online GALE Library and student forums. Support and assistance are always available to Open Colleges students, whether online or via the telephone.

What are the benefits of studying online?

There are lots of advantages to learning online. All course materials, lessons and study resources can be accessed online from anywhere, making it an easy and uncomplicated learning experience. Furthermore, you won’t have to leave the comfort of your own home. As long as you have a computer with internet connection you’ll be good to go! Online education courses significantly cut down the amount of paper used while learning.

If you’re not confident in your computer skills, don’t worry. We have a range of easy-to-read, step-by-step explanatory articles to help guide you through any technical issues that arise. Our online courses are also fun! Each course is full of engaging, interactive content, assessment features, and additional resources to maximise your development skills and ensure you won’t feel like you’re studying alone. So what are you waiting for?

 

Enrol in online education and take the next step in your career.